It is no secret that working in your garden has incredible mental (and physical) health benefits. Some of us are lucky enough that we can work outside all year long. What about the rest of us? What are the things we can and should be doing to stay healthy during these times?
- Take care of your body –
- Exercise or stretch regularly. This does not need to be formal. Perhaps just get up every hour to walk around your room or home.
- Try to get some fresh air every day. If you can’t go in your yard or for a walk, maybe open a window for a few minutes, stand at the front door, or go to your mailbox.
- Eat well-balanced meals and talk to your doctor about vitamins and supplements
- Get plenty of sleep. This is likely a good time to create a bedtime ritual that allows you to turn your mind off for the night. Some ideas could include a bath, a warm cup of decaffeinated tea, prayer, listing three things you are grateful for, reading.
- Take care of your mind
- Take time for deep breathing exercises or meditation
- Find activities you enjoy in order to regularly take breaks from the news – this might be a good time to try your hand at painting a bright outdoor landscape
- Connect with others – family, friends, maybe even neighbors. Don’t be afraid to use technology to connect, who knows, this might be the perfect time to connect with that childhood friend that lives across the globe.
- Know how to get medical treatment if you should get sick
- Give yourself something to look forward to – a trip, a decadent meal, a call with a loved one
There is no one size fits all. In fact, what worked for you in the fall may no longer work in the spring. These are just ideas to help you stay healthy. In my case, having a routine and regular breathing exercises help. My mom goes for a walk every day that the weather cooperates. My husband is nearly unaffected by our family being locked down and when he is, a drive will clear his head. My middle daughter rewards herself with a walk and talking to friends and that keeps her spirits up.
These are unique times, feel free to do whatever helps you get through the week. What works for you? Did we miss anything?
